Audi’s R8 supercar will bid farewell after the 2023 model year, paving the way for its successor, which is rumored to feature an electric powertrain and may not be called the R8 anymore. However, before the current R8 exits the stage, Audi is said to be preparing a special edition with a more aggressive and hardcore approach. A possible prototype of this hardcore R8 has recently been spotted during testing, adding to the speculation surrounding its impending release.
The latest spy shots and video from Car Spy Media show what appears to be Audi’s R8 LMS GT2 race car undergoing testing at the renowned Nürburgring circuit. However, there are some distinct differences between this prototype and the race car version. The sighting indicates that this vehicle is not solely intended for track use, as it features a taller ride height and is fitted with license plates to make it eligible for road driving as well. The video even captures the prototype being driven on the surrounding roads of the Nürburgring.
The R8 LMS GT2, introduced in 2019 for the revived GT2 series organized by SRO, is powered by the familiar 5.2-liter V10 engine, producing an impressive 640 horsepower. However, with the discontinuation of the R8 and the related Lamborghini Huracán, the V10 engine will also bid farewell along with them. This special edition R8 aims to celebrate the iconic engine’s legacy before it makes way for the electric powertrain of the future.
In addition to its powertrain, the R8 LMS GT2 also boasts a unique roof design. It is based on the R8 Spyder, Audi’s open-top sports car, which allows for the installation of a roll cage. Carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic is used extensively in the body panels to reduce weight, resulting in a dry weight of approximately 3,000 pounds. Many of these modifications, such as the lightweight construction and roof design, can be seen in the prototype.
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This rumored hardcore R8 has been in the works for some time. Audi’s Research and Development chief, Oliver Hoffman, hinted at a road-going version of an R8 race car back in 2019, when he was still in charge of Audi Sport. He also mentioned that Audi factory driver Frank Stippler was actively involved in the development of high-performance Audi road cars, particularly in areas such as suspension and brakes. Stippler himself has been behind the wheel of this prototype during its initial testing at the Nürburgring.
The lack of camouflage gear on this prototype suggests that its debut might not be far off. Sources indicate that the car could be unveiled in early next year, with a limited production run of only 100 units. Car enthusiasts and Audi fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of this special edition R8, promising to deliver an exhilarating driving experience and pay homage to the memorable V10 engine of the current R8.
As the current R8 models make way for an electrified future, Audi is determined to bid farewell with a bang. The rumored special edition R8 aims to captivate automotive enthusiasts with its extreme performance and unique design elements. It serves as a tribute to the R8’s successful legacy and sets the stage for Audi’s upcoming electric supercar, which promises to redefine the boundaries of performance and sustainability. Until then, we eagerly await the official unveiling of this thrilling send-off to the legendary Audi R8.
